Regional focus/area studies

Public administration in the light of the new Title V of the Italian Constitution

Article Abstract:

The whole of Title V of the Italian Constitution, entitled 'Regions, Provinces, Municipalities', was affected by the changes made by constitutional law No.3 of 18 October 2001, transforming the relationship among the Italian local governments. The implementation of the constitutional principles with regard to Public Administration was enabled by provision of the fundamental directions by the Constitutional Court for their interpretation, even though the transformation of the administration system takes place slowly and in single sectors.

The Israeli withdrawal from Gaza - a constitutional perspective

Article Abstract:

The circumstances leading to the involvement of the Israeli High Court of Justice in the Disengagement Plan, implemented by Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon during 2004-2005 directing withdrawal of Israeli presence in the Gaza strip, are discussed. The High Court was a full and active partner to the Disengagement Plan defending its legality and constitutionality, when it examined all petitions opposing the plan, exercised close and ongoing supervision and confirmed and legitimized all the decisions.

Political origins of the Turkish constitutional court and the problem of democratic legitimacy

Article Abstract:

The political origins of the Turkish Constitutional Court, which has played a very important role in Turkish politics since its inception in 1962, are discussed. A majority of the Turkish public has accepted the Court as a legitimate and indispensable entity although debates are still on regarding reformation of the structure of the Court in order to increase its democratic legitimacy.